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The Government of Canada Awards Contract for the Development of Portable Power Source for Canadian Forces Field Equipment

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 14, 2012) - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today announced the awarding of a contract to Rheinmetall Canada Inc, located in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, to develop a lightweight power source prototype to be worn by Canadian soldiers, to run their equipment in the field.

"Our government is building on our strong record of providing the Canadian Forces with the tools they need to do the jobs asked of them - often in dangerous and challenging environments," said Minister MacKay. "Undertaking research into this kind of technology supports the ability of our soldiers to carry out their missions more effectively and provides Canadian industry with an opportunity to work with government."

"With this contract, our Government is using Canadian expertise to provide our men and women in uniform with innovative and advanced equipment required for their work in the field," said Minister Ambrose.

Currently, Canadian Forces soldiers carry 13 to 15 batteries to operate their portable devices. These batteries can weigh as much as 5 kilograms and contribute to fatigue for soldiers when on a mission.

Under the contract, Rheinmetall Canada Inc. will research and develop a prototype for a low-weight, energy-efficient power source into which soldiers in the field can easily plug their devices.

The work will be done in collaboration with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) and the supplier is required to use Canadian goods and/or services in carrying out the work. This partnership is an excellent example of industry and government working together to meet military requirements by advancing science and technology and engaging the Canadian innovation system. DRDC's programs ensure that the Canadian Forces have the scientifically-based information needed to consider the technology options that will best serve their needs.

The 18-month contract, valued at $1.6 million, was awarded following a competitive procurement process. The contract also provides options for further developmental work that may be exercised by the Government of Canada.

Note to editor/news director:

For further information please contact: Marie-Hélène Brisson, Defence Research and Development Canada, Public Affairs Officer, by telephone at 613-992-7237 or by email at Marie-Helene.Brisson@drdc-rddc.gc.ca